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Australia & South Pacific

Australia Vacations, Tours, Travel Packages & Experiences

  • View of the Sydney Harbour Bridge
  • The cuddly koala, not a bear but a marsupial, is always a great photo opportunity while on your Australia vacation.
  • Australia's Uluru (or Ayers Rock) is a massive sandstone monolith and should be included on your trip to Australia.
  • The Great Barrier Reef is the largest living thing on Earth and is a must visit on all Australia vacations.
  • Learn to throw a boomerang by an aboriginal warrior while on your Australia tour.

Before setting off on an Australia vacation, learn something about its background and history. Is it an island or a continent? Australia is the sixth largest landmass in the world which explains in some ways the reasons why it is so diverse. There are 6 states and 2 territories, all offering a wide range of attractions and landscapes to entice the visitor. Consider the different terrains – tropical rainforests, red desert, coral reefs, snow-clad mountains, wetlands, winelands, national parks, bushland and so much more. On top of these are a number of cities with plentiful culture to compete with any other destination. 

And bear in mind, Australia was once a penal colony – perhaps it was the convicts who gave the Aussies their unique humour! Australia’s nickname is “Oz” which dates back to the early 20th Century. 

Why should I travel to Australia?

To list the reasons for taking a trip to Australia, it is necessary to include the beaches, nature and wildlife (think of the indigenous animals that exist there such as the Kangaroo, the Koala, the Wallaby, the Wombat and the Tasmanian Devil plus the Kookaburra and Emu birds), availability of numerous sporting activities including surfing, scuba diving and snorkeling, food and wine (some of the world’s best wines are to be found here), adventure activities and cultural pursuits. 

What are the best places to visit in Australia?

It may be an island but it could be difficult to decide on where to go and how long to stay in order to experience the true Australia.

Sydney, New South Wales

Most trips to Australia will probably start in Sydney, the country’s largest city known as “The Harbour City” due to it being mainly built around Sydney Harbour. It has been recognized as one of the world’s most beautiful metropolises.  Probably the two most iconic and outstanding and dominating landmarks are the huge Sydney Harbour Bridge (also known as the “Coat Hanger”) and the Sydney Opera House with its sail shaped structural design.Sydney is situated on miles of ocean coastline and has a number of sandy surf beaches within easy reach of the centre. Some of the best known are Bondi Beach and Manly Beach and a visit to them should be included on your Australia tour. A very popular activity is to take a harbour cruise which takes in not only the skyline of Sydney but also the attractive nearby suburbs spread out around the harbour. The city boasts several very beautiful and scenic parks such as The Domain which contains both the interesting Royal Botanical Gardens but also the resplendent Government House. Nearby are the National Art gallery of New South Wales, the Museum of Sydney and the Australian Museum. Interesting neighbourhoods to stroll around are The Rocks with its Art Deco buildings and Paddington with its grand Victorian homes and its lively café and restaurant scene,

What are the best sights to see during a Sydney Vacation?

Worth a visit from Sydney are the Blue Mountains 2 hours from the city. They offer remarkable scenery and are a UNESCO world heritage site. The unique formations of dramatic scenery encompass steep cliffs, eucalyptus forests, waterfalls and small villages. The mountains include the Three Sisters, awe-inspiring pinnacled peaks.  There are 140 kilometres/75 miles of walking trails as well as a cable railway which is purported to be the steepest anywhere. Should one wish to spend time here, the best place would be Katoomba, a small town offering arty boutique shops.   Another region not too far away from Sydney is the Hunter Valley, a wine producing region with over 120 wineries. The Hunter Valley Gardens here has 25 acres of colourful flowers. 

Blue Mountains National Park is a great additional to all Australia vacations

What to do on a Melbourne Vacation? 

Melbourne, Sydney’s “rival”, is a sophisticated metropolis and should be included on all Australia vacations. It is the most European of Australia’s cities and is its cultural capital. Its unique character includes its streetcars and its Victorian era architecture. Melbourne offers excellent shopping and cultural sites such as art galleries and museums. It has colourful neighbourhoods such as Fitzroy and St. Kilda, the latter a beach resort as well as a trendy suburb. Side trips from Melbourne can be to Phillip Island to watch the Penguin activity at sunset and the scenic Great Ocean Road including the unique rock formation of the Twelve Apostles.

What to do when visiting Adelaide? 

Adelaide is an easy going, relaxed and garden-like city, home to the biannual Arts Festival and is a wonderful centre from which to visit the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale wine districts, Kangaroo Island with its abundance of wildlife and Cleland Conservation Park where you can get up close to many of the country’s indigenous animals. 

Canberra, the serene unhurried and purpose-built and planned capital, is located around the attractive artificial Lake Burley Griffin. Some of the major landmarks are the old Parliament House, the traditionally designed Parliament Building and the Australian War Memorial. Canberra has a several interesting art galleries and museums.

What to do in Brisbane?

Brisbane is Australia’s third largest city and is known as the “City of Sunny Days” due to its sub-tropical climate. The Brisbane River dissects the city and adds to the charm and character. A major attraction is the nearby Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the world’s largest.
Not far from Brisbane are two excellent beach resort destinations. The Gold Coast with its 30 beaches including the best known, Surfers Paradise, is also close to a hinterland offering scenic national parks, mountains, waterfalls and rainforest. The Sunshine Coast has 70 kilometres/ 44 miles of uncrowded white sand beaches and lush green scenery to attract the visitor. 

What to do in Perth?

Perth, although off the beaten track and not included as part of many trips to Australia, it is actually Australia’s fourth largest city. It is not only laid-back quiet and safe, it is culturally diverse with attractive uncrowded beaches, gardens and a good zoo. King’s Park is a landmark and is larger than Central Park and encompasses an excellent botanical gardens.  From Perth, one can visit the winelands of Western Australia in the Swan Valley and at Margaret River. 

Darwin, in the north of the country is small yet cosmopolitan mainly due to the mix of different ethnic cultures which one finds here. It is handy for a visit to both the Charles Darwin National Park, one of Australia’s largest wetlands and the Kakadu National Park, the country’s largest national park with its crocodiles, unique birdlife and the largest collection of Aboriginal rock art. Try a short boat cruise there to see everything. 

Cairns in Northern Queensland is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and in our view is a must inclusion in all Australia tours. Mainly a tourist centre, it is surrounded by rainforest and a must here is to take the scenic rail trip to the Kuranda Rainforest.  

Great Barrier Reef Tour

Australia's Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Located on the east coast, it is 2300 kilometres/1400 miles in length with a colourful underwater kingdom contains 1500 species of tropical fish alone. It is the largest coral reef formation in the world offering a spectacular array of marine life. It is no wonder that it is a scuba diver’s paradise as well as one for snorkelers. An important part of the Great Barrier Reef is the Whitsundays group of islands which include Hayman, Hamilton and Whitehaven Islands and consists of 74 different islands. An excellent way to get to know the Great Barrier Reef is to take a short cruise.

The spectacular Great Barrier Reef should be included on all trips to Australia.

The Australian Outback

The Outback is actually a vast area which comprises most of Australia and which is made up of either semi-arid or desert land. It is not an exact location. One of the best known towns is Alice Springs, and it`s the perfect place to explore the Australian Outback, which is also know as the “Red Centre”. It is also the home of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Activities here can include camel rides from one of the many camel farms, stargazing as the town exists under amazingly clear skies and hot air ballooning. One can visit the nearby King’s Canyon and the MacDonnell Range of mountains. 450 kilometres/270 miles away is Ayers Rock, the huge sandstone monolith which stands out starkly in the surrounding desert. It is one of Australia's iconic sites and one that should be part of any Australian tours.  This UNESCO world heritage site is 348 metres/1142 feet in height. To the Aboriginals, it is a sacred site of spiritual significance. One can climb the rock but this is not highly recommended any more as it is a hazardous undertaking and frowned upon by the Aboriginal community. Ayers Rock is also known by its aboriginal name, Uluru. One of the interesting features of the rock is the changes in colour as the day progresses.

Add a Tour of Tasmania

Tasmania is an amazingly scenic destination with many rugged mountain and wilderness areas and although it is not often included in tours of Australia, it should be. It is in fact, the most mountainous state in Australia. One can experience jagged peaks and dense forests plus pristine lakes all at the same time. The capital, Hobart is a pretty city with a vibrant waterfront and harbour built on reclaimed land. It is also associated historically with the convict era as depicted at the Port Arthur Historical site, an ex convict prison.

There is so much more to enjoy and experience in this magical land. Like most trips to Australia the biggest decision is choosing where to visit in the time available. Our Best Time to Visit Australia page will also help you decide when to travel to Australia. 

The Best of Winter (June to August) in Australia 

Winter in Australia is observably more mild than most major cities in the Northern Hemisphere. Tropical North Queensland and the Northern Territory generally experience their dry season during these months, which makes it a perfect time of year for adventurers, nature lover and wildlife enthusiasts. Surprising to some, South-Eastern areas of Australia, are well known for their winter ski slopes. During these months, you can also see the spectacular sight of humpback whales migrating North along the coastline.

Some Great Events in Winter:

Vivid Sydney - 24th May until 15th Jun 2019

Sydney glows for the famous festival of lights and music.

Melbourne International Film Festival – 1st August until 18th August

One of the oldest film festivals in the world

Adelaide Cabaret Festival – 8th June until 28th June

If you’re a fan of live performances, Adelaide hosts the second largest fringe festival in the world.

Travel to Australia from USA 

The closest major International airport to Australia is Los Angeles (LAX). Whether you are flying into Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne the flight time for direct flights range between 13hrs to 16hrs.

San Francisco (SFO) is also a popular gateway that will have you arrive in Australia in a similar timeframe. There are also direct flights to Sydney from Houston (IAH) and Dallas (DFW).

Travel to Australia from Canada

The only direct flights to Australia fly out of Vancouver International (YVR). Other popular routes connect through the USA (San Francisco or Los Angeles).

"Globetrotting with Goway" blog articles

For some additional reading, the following articles are from our blog “Globetrotting with Goway”….. a great source of information for those people who are, or who want to be, world travellers!

Visting the Icons of OZ on An Australia Vacation (Part 1)

Visiting the Icons of OZ on An Australia Vacation (Part 2)

Discover the WOW Factor of South Australia

Australia's Iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sydney Opera House - Australia's Architectural Wonder

Plan Your Perfect Australia Escape

Enjoy Cruising in Australia and the South Pacific

Top 10 Things to Do in Melbourne, Australia

Top 5 Places to Visit in Australia This Summer

Top 10 Things to Do in Sydney, Australia

Swimming With the Fishes in Australia

7 Great Reasons to Take Your Kids to Australia This Summer

Odd Facts about Australia

2 Myths About Travel to Australia

World's Best Family Destinations

Travel Through the Australian Outback By Train

Australia Vacation Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy to navigate travel information section dedicated to Australia vacations. 

Learn about the history and culture of Australia, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Australia's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Australia for yourself. Start exploring...book one of our Australia tours today!

 

Extend Your Stay

Consider an additional stopover to your Australia vacation at one of Goway's South Pacific destinations. You can choose from  our selection of  New Zealand vacation packages, Tahiti vacation packages or stay at one of our  featured Fiji resorts or perhaps take a Cook Island vacation. This can be done stopping over en route to or from Australia.

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FEATURED TRIP

Classic Australia 12 Day

Experience the best that Australia has to offer from Sydney’s Opera House to spectacular Ayers Rock. Swim in the Great Barrier Reef and learn about the traditional Aboriginal “Dreamtime”.

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  • Sydney and Melbourne Explorer

    This Australia vacation showcases the beauty and glamour of the nation’s top two cities. Taking in Sydney and Melbourne, you’ll see incredible sights like the Sydney Opera House, enjoy world-class food and culture, and have the chance to enjoy iconic experiences like the Little Penguin Parade on Phillip Island.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,549
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  • Australia & New Zealand Combo

    Explore the two most popular cities of Australia and New Zealand on this air-land combo tour. Start in Sydney, where you'll tour the Sydney Opera House, cruise across the famous harbour, and see koalas and kangaroos at Taronga Zoo. Then head on to Auckland where you'll explore the twin harbours, learn about Maori traditions, and enjoy unbeatable views of the landscape.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,999
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    Vacation Packages with Airfare
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  • Sydney and Great Barrier Reef Explorer

    An ideal Australia trip for first timers. Flying Virgin Australia, this Australia vacation hits two of the country’s most popular destinations, Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy lots of time to see the sights your way (with an attractions pass in hand) and take an unforgettable cruise on the Great Barrier Reef.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,799
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  • Classic Australia 15 Day

    Enjoy Australia’s most famous sites from Sydney’s Opera House to an Aboriginal “Dreamtime” walk in Kuranda with stops at the Great Barrier Reef, Ayers Rock and Darwin in between.
    Duration:
    15 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,237
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers)
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  • Classic Golden Triangle: Melbourne to Sydney

    Visit the Classic Golden Triangle of Melbourne, Cairns and Sydney. See the penguins of Phillip Island, swim in the Great Barrier Reef then get to know the historic side of Sydney.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,430
    Trip Type:
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  • Classic Golden Triangle: Sydney to Melbourne

    Explore the unforgettable Golden Triangle of Sydney, Cairns, and Melbourne. Get to know Sydney’s historic side and its breathtaking landmarks, swim through the waters of the Great Barrier Reef, and see the penguins of Phillip Island after indulging in world-class culture.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,430
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers)
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  • Great Ocean Road & Wildlife Ecotour

    Melbourne is one of the world’s great cities, but the surrounding area hold some truly unique Australian adventures. Spot kangaroos and koalas in the wild, and drive the Great Ocean Road, staying at local bed and breakfasts along the way.
    Duration:
    3 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,168
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  • Melbourne, Sydney & Great Barrier Reef Explorer

    Escape to Australia with a brilliant combination of urban highlights and natural icons. On this Australia vacation, you’ll see the Sydney Opera House, snorkel and dive through the Great Barrier Reef in northern Queensland,, and enjoy the trendy bars and restaurants of the world’s most livable city, Melbourne.
    Duration:
    15 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,269
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  • Natural Tasmania 4 Days: Scheduled

    An incredible one fifth of Tasmania has been listed as a World Heritage site. Spend four days in Hobart, the Tasman Peninsula and Freycinet National Park, uncovering unspoiled nature.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,568
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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  • Outback Australia: The Color of Red

    Experience the wonders of the Red Centre of the Outback with visits to unique Alice Springs, the remarkable Kings Canyon and the amazing Uluru- Kata Tjuta National Park, home to the unusual Olga’s and the iconic Ayers Rock. Enjoy two dinners under the stars.
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    5 Days
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    US$ 2,459
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    Escorted Coach Touring
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  • Three Capitals Classic

    Take the opportunity to experience three of Australia’s capital cities. See the sights of Sydney before heading to Canberra, the national capital, then visit the highlights of Melbourne.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,064
    Trip Type:
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  • Adelaide to Alice Springs: Epic Trip for 18 to 39 year olds

    Take the chance to get off the beaten track by spending seven days exploring the iconic highlights of South Australia and the Northern Territory, combining camping and budget accommodation.
    Duration:
    9 Days
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    US$ 1,589
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    Active & Adventurous, Escorted Coach Touring, Ideas for 18 to 30 Somethings, Single Friendly
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  • Alice Springs to Adelaide: Epic Trip for 18 to 39 year olds

    Take the chance to get off the beaten track by spending seven days exploring the iconic highlights of South Australia and the Northern Territory, combining camping and budget accommodation.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,589
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Ideas for 18 to 30 Somethings, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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  • Alice Springs to Darwin 4WD Self Drive

    Self-drives offer an easy way to enjoy Australia’s sights at your own pace. Spend some time in historic Tennant Creek before going to Katherine and Kakadu National Park, ending in Darwin.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 689
    Trip Type:
    Self-Drives
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  • Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon, Olgas & Alice Springs

    Discover the best of Australia’s Red Centre. See the sun set and rise over Ayers Rock, visit the 36 rock domes of the Olgas, and travel to spectacular Kings Canyon then visit Alice Springs.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 813
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  • Classic Downunder: Auckland to Melbourne

    Get to know the true Downunder by experiencing the best of both Australia and New Zealand. Journey through New Zealand’s incredible islands before embarking on a tour of Australia.
    Duration:
    19 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,638
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers)
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  • Classic Downunder: Melbourne to Auckland

    Get to know the true Downunder by experiencing the best of both Australia and New Zealand. Visit Australia's iconic sites and cities before commencing a journey through New Zealand’s incredible islands.
    Duration:
    19 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,641
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers)
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  • Classic South Pacific

    Enjoy the Classic South Pacific by encountering Fijian, Maori and Aboriginal cultures. Travel from Fiji to New Zealand to Australia taking in fantastic sights and experiences on route.
    Duration:
    14 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,490
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers)
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  • Hobart: Big 3 Tasmania Hobart to Launceston

    Add the best of Tasmania to your Australia vacation with this short journey from Hobart to Launceston, or vice versa. See historic convict ruins, and some of Australia’s most pristine national parks.
    Duration:
    3 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 279
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous
    Australia See Trip Details

  • 4WD Eco Adventure Hotel Safari

    Starting and finishing in Alice Springs, this 4WD Eco Adventure Hotel Safari is a perfect option for those seeking adventure but who prefer the comforts of hotel accommodation. Take an opportunity to enjoy the Red Centre in comfort.
    Duration:
    3 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,241
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous
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  • Alice Springs & Ayers Rock

    Alice Springs is Australia’s most famous Outback town and Uluru/Ayers Rock is Australia’s most recognizable natural icon. Take time to explore these incredibly unique parts of the country.
    Duration:
    3 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 554
    Trip Type:
    Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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  • Highlights & Wildlife

    Experience the historic side of Sydney before exploring the wildlife of Kangaroo Island. Visit Australia’s world renowned wineries followed by stops at Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,565
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers)
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  • Southern Explorer (Australia)

    Take in Sydney’s sights before venturing to the spectacular Blue Mountains. Drive from Hobart to the Cradle Mountains, and then get to know the Phillip Island penguins and Melbourne.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,699
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers)
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  • Trans Continental Classic

    Travel from the Pacific Ocean to the Indian Ocean (or vice versa). Visit Sydney and Canberra, spend time aboard the ‘Indian Pacific’ train, and explore Adelaide and Kangaroo Island.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,943
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Rail Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Waltzing Matilda: Holiday of a Lifetime

    Embark on an unforgettable journey across Australia and New Zealand with the Waltzing Matilda Holiday of a Lifetime. As one of Goway’s premier tours, Waltzing Matilda showcases the icons of two remarkable nations, taking you from the twin harbours of Auckland to the Outback and Uluru/Ayers Rock to the Great Barrier Reef and finally to cosmopolitan Sydney.
    Duration:
    20 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 9,199
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring, Holidays of a Lifetime, Single Friendly
    Australia See Trip Details
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